A Bond Fan's Perspective on the Iconic Franchise

Am I a die-hard fan or a fervent follower of the James Bond franchise? Not exactly. While I haven't read every single novel by Ian Fleming, and I can't reel off every iconic gadget used by 007, I have watched every Bond movie and can recall the most memorable scenes. I enjoy James Bond for what it is—a delightful, temporary escape from reality with its creative action scenes, intriguing mysteries, and witty dialogues.

My Early Exposure to James Bond

My journey with Bond began in the mid-sixties when I was around 15-16 years old. Inspired by the Dutch translations of Ian Fleming's novels, I embarked on a reading spree that followed with the release of films. The first Bond movie I saw was Dr. No, which dates back to 1961. Despite the film being produced in 1962, it was an eye-opener to see it as only the third entry in the franchise. Since Fleming's passing in 1964, I’ve since read and enjoyed various Bond books written by other authors.

My Favourite Bond Films

Among the films, I hold a special place for Licence to Kill, a compelling and violent film that capitalizes on the 15-cert rating in the cinema. I also appreciate Die Another Day, despite the mixed critical opinions. My first Bond films were Casino Royale and Licence to Kill, and I found them to be not too bad, given the era they were made in. My favorite Bond movies, however, are Dr. No and Live and Let Die, featuring Sean Connery and Roger Moore, respectively.

The Man I Wish to Emulate

Bond is not just a character in a series of films; he is a symbol of adventure and masculinity. While I recognize the differences between myself and 007—such as not making as much money, not having the same sexual prowess, and not being one of the British secret agents—there is still something to admire in him, especially his monstrous confidence. I wish I could look the part and appreciate the charm of an Anglican European akin to Bond.

The Future of James Bond

With the conclusion of Daniel Craig's portrayal of James Bond in the 2021 film, it is now time to ponder about the next iteration of the iconic character. The franchise has a rich history and will continue to be a part of pop culture for years to come. The journey to find the next James Bond will undoubtedly be an interesting one.

Though I am not a die-hard fan, the appeal of James Bond lies in its timeless nature and the ability to captivate audiences over decades. As each new film is released, it adds to the legacy of the franchise, ensuring its place in the history of cinema.